This Means War

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

– Ephesians 6:12

If you’re into long-distance running, you’re probably familiar with The Wall — that barrier of mental and physical fatigue that successful athletes train for years to overcome. If successful, they’ll reach the finish line with power left to spare. Unprepared competitors will meanwhile drop out of the race in exhaustion and defeat.

As Christ-followers, we face our own barriers as we try to live the ways that God desires. While fighting to keep pace in a figurative marathon, we battle against our natural tendencies to do

what’s wrong (“sin”). We fail to follow Jesus’ example of loving our neighbors, helping the disadvantaged and honoring God. And we’re also tempted to return to the old me-first lifestyle. It’s a real struggle: the selfish stuff we know we shouldn’t do versus the ultimately world-changing things we can and should do. And as with any ongoing struggle, fatigue eventually ensues.

That’s when we need some energy. Something like a shot of espresso or a can or two of Red Bull — but something much more powerful and lasting.

In the Book of Romans, the Apostle Paul wrote that he considered this exhausting struggle to be internal warfare pitting good against evil. And through his own energy and efforts, he knew he would certainly lose the battle. But Paul had a dynamic weapon that assured his ultimate victory. And it’s something that’s available to you and me right now.

It’s called the Holy Spirit, and it’s God’s power residing in every believer. It’s also that personal force that enables us to do or say the things we never could before, overcome seemingly insurmountable odds and generally do the impossible. In fact, the Bible says it’s the same power that raised Jesus from the dead after his crucifixion.

If you’re a Christ-follower, let the Holy Spirit empower you, make the most of your life and take you the entire distance. Be alert to his teachings and leadings, and understand that they can come from just about anywhere. It might be a Bible passage that reveals itself with new meaning. Or maybe it’s a spiritual truth from a discussion at your Gel Group. The Holy Spirit can also speak through a conversation with a friend or stranger, or even out of an odd circumstance in the workplace.

Do you have the power you need to make it across the finish line in this long-distance race called life? It’s closer than you think. And all you have to do is ask.